Home News WATCH: Portarlington ‘cut in half’ as River Barrow bursts its banks

WATCH: Portarlington ‘cut in half’ as River Barrow bursts its banks

Portarlington is under siege from the River Barrow
Portarlington was under siege from the River Barrow

Portarlington has become the latest Laois town to be affected by flooding.

The River Barrow has burst its banks in the centre of the town.

RTE reporter Ciaran Mullooly is in the town and he says that it has been ‘paralysed’ by flood water.

The River Barrow is up 9 feet on normal summer levels.

Laois County Council say Botley Lane and Bog Road are closed.

Stop and go is currently in place on Patrick Street and the Council will continue to monitor the situation.

Roads crews, Civil Defence crews and Fire Service crews are in attendance.

Members of the public are requested to observe road closure signs, drive appropriately and not attempt to drive through flooded areas.

Meanwhile, the decision has been made to close three schools in Portarlington as access to the schools has been cut off due to the flooding.

Colaiste Iosagain secondary school, St Patrick’s Boys National School and Presentation Primary School Portarlington have been closed on health and safety grounds as parents would not be able to safely access the schools.

SEE ALSO – New drainage scheme needed to prevent repeat flooding – Stanley